One-Pan Rack Lamb with Olives

Highlighted under: International Recipe Collection

Experience the rich flavors of a perfectly roasted rack of lamb paired with savory olives, all cooked in one pan for easy cleanup.

Emily Carter

Created by

Emily Carter

Last updated on 2025-12-23T22:38:27.676Z

This One-Pan Rack Lamb with Olives is a delightful dish that brings together tender lamb, vibrant olives, and aromatic herbs, all cooked in harmony. Perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe ensures a memorable meal with minimal fuss.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Tender, juicy lamb infused with aromatic herbs
  • Savory olives that enhance the dish's depth
  • One-pan preparation for easy cleanup

The Perfect Pairing of Flavors

One-Pan Rack Lamb with Olives is a culinary delight that marries the tenderness of lamb with the briny, savory notes of olives. The dish is not only a feast for the palate but also a visual treat, showcasing vibrant colors and enticing aromas. The addition of cherry tomatoes adds a touch of sweetness, balancing the dish beautifully. Each bite offers a harmonious blend of flavors that will impress your family and friends.

The herbs used in this recipe, particularly rosemary, enhance the lamb's natural flavors. Rosemary has a robust aroma that complements the richness of the meat, making it an essential ingredient. When combined with garlic, the flavors deepen, creating a mouthwatering experience that is hard to resist. This dish is perfect for special occasions or a cozy dinner at home.

Simplicity Meets Elegance

What sets this recipe apart is its simplicity. With just a few high-quality ingredients, you can create a dish that feels gourmet. The one-pan approach not only minimizes cleanup but also allows the flavors to meld together beautifully during cooking. The ease of preparation means you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the company of your guests.

This recipe is also incredibly versatile. You can easily adjust the ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. For example, feel free to swap out olives for capers or adjust the level of spice with more or fewer red pepper flakes. This adaptability makes it a go-to recipe for any occasion.

Cooking Tips for Success

To ensure your rack of lamb turns out perfectly every time, it’s essential to allow the meat to come to room temperature before cooking. This step promotes even cooking throughout the lamb. Additionally, using a meat thermometer can help you achieve the desired doneness. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of about 135°F (57°C).

Don’t forget to let the lamb rest after roasting. This crucial step allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and tender dish. While the lamb rests, you can prepare a simple side salad or some crusty bread to serve alongside the dish.

Ingredients

For the Lamb

  • 1 rack of lamb (about 1.5 lbs)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Olive Mixture

  • 1 cup green olives, pitted and halved
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Combine all the ingredients for a flavorful and satisfying dish!

Instructions

Prepare the Lamb

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Season the rack of lamb with salt, pepper, minced garlic, and rosemary. Rub the olive oil all over the lamb.

Sear the Lamb

In a large oven-safe skillet, heat a bit of olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the rack of lamb on all sides until browned, about 2-3 minutes per side.

Add the Olive Mixture

Once the lamb is seared, remove it from the skillet. In the same skillet, combine the olives, cherry tomatoes, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes. Stir well.

Roast in the Oven

Place the rack of lamb back in the skillet, nestled among the olives and tomatoes. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast for 25-30 minutes for medium-rare, or until desired doneness.

Rest and Serve

Remove the skillet from the oven and let the lamb rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with the olive mixture spooned over the top.

Enjoy your delicious One-Pan Rack Lamb with Olives!

Serving Suggestions

Pair your One-Pan Rack Lamb with Olives with a refreshing green salad or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal. The freshness of the salad balances the richness of the lamb, while the roasted vegetables add depth and texture. Consider serving a light red wine, such as Pinot Noir, which complements the flavors of lamb beautifully.

For a more substantial side, creamy mashed potatoes or a herbed couscous can elevate the meal. The creamy texture of the potatoes pairs well with the savory lamb, while couscous can soak up the delicious juices from the dish, making each bite delightful.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store the lamb and olive mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the oven at a low temperature to avoid drying out the meat. You can also slice the lamb and use it in sandwiches or salads for a quick and delicious meal.

Freezing is another option if you want to save leftovers for later. Wrap the lamb tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as desired.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different cut of lamb?

Yes, you can use lamb chops or a leg of lamb, but cooking times may vary.

→ What sides pair well with this dish?

Roasted vegetables or a simple salad complement the lamb beautifully.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the lamb and olive mixture ahead, then roast it just before serving.

→ Is this recipe suitable for special occasions?

Absolutely! It's perfect for gatherings and celebrations.

One-Pan Rack Lamb with Olives

Experience the rich flavors of a perfectly roasted rack of lamb paired with savory olives, all cooked in one pan for easy cleanup.

Prep Time20 minutes
Cooking Duration40 minutes
Overall Time60 minutes

Created by: Emily Carter

Recipe Type: International Recipe Collection

Skill Level: Intermediate

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

For the Lamb

  1. 1 rack of lamb (about 1.5 lbs)
  2. 2 tablespoons olive oil
  3. 3 cloves garlic, minced
  4. 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
  5. Salt and pepper to taste

For the Olive Mixture

  1. 1 cup green olives, pitted and halved
  2. 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  3. 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  4. 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

How-To Steps

Step 01

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Season the rack of lamb with salt, pepper, minced garlic, and rosemary. Rub the olive oil all over the lamb.

Step 02

In a large oven-safe skillet, heat a bit of olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the rack of lamb on all sides until browned, about 2-3 minutes per side.

Step 03

Once the lamb is seared, remove it from the skillet. In the same skillet, combine the olives, cherry tomatoes, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes. Stir well.

Step 04

Place the rack of lamb back in the skillet, nestled among the olives and tomatoes. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast for 25-30 minutes for medium-rare, or until desired doneness.

Step 05

Remove the skillet from the oven and let the lamb rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with the olive mixture spooned over the top.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 480 kcal
  • Total Fat: 30g
  • Saturated Fat: 12g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg
  • Sodium: 650mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 15g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 2g
  • Protein: 40g